You may know that the chevron mustache is making a comeback. It is certainly a style that makes a statement so if you are considering growing one you’ll need to know a thing or two about this mustache.
We take a look at what this style is, and how to achieve and maintain it including how to trim a chevron mustache.

What Is A Chevron Mustache?
A chevron mustache is one that is angled down towards the corners of the mouth. It outlines the shape of the top lip and is typically full and thick. It’s called a chevron as it resembles a chevron insignia or upside-down V shape.
It is a quintessentially 1980s look, popularized by Tom Selleck and Freddie Mercury and now making a comeback.
This particular mustache style suits an oval-shaped face as it draws attention to the horizontal direction of the mustache.
The shape is like a horseshoe mustache with the growth going in the same direction, but the chevron stops at the corners of the mouth.
The bottom of the mustache sits above the top lip and shouldn’t overlap it. There are variations which we’ll discuss later.
Some men prefer to wear the chevron mustache by itself while others like to allow it to connect to their beard. However you wear it, you’ll want to know the best way to shape a chevron mustache and how to keep it looking good by trimming it.
How To Shape A Chevron Mustache
In order to shape a chevron mustache your existing mustache should be fairly thick and full. You’re not going to be able to pull off this look with a thin, patchy mustache.
If that’s where your mustache is at right now then you’ll have to work at getting it thicker and fuller first.
To achieve the right shape for your chevron mustache you’ll need a good-quality beard and hair trimmer.
Then you’ll need to choose the length according to how long you want your mustache to be. We recommend if you’re wearing it without a beard keep it long.
Now comb your mustache so that all the hairs are going in the same downward direction.
The fullest part of your mustache will be in the center of your top lip. To get this effect, trim the ends of your mustache making sure to angle them toward the corners of your mouth.
Take off a little at a time so that you don’t accidentally trim too much and spoil the shape. If you feel confident enough you can use a straight-edge razor to achieve defined edges.
Trimming A Chevron Mustache
Once you have mastered the art of shaping your chevron mustache you’ll have to keep it looking tidy by trimming it regularly. Depending on how fast your hair grows you may have to trim your mustache every few days.
Due to its distinctive shape, it doesn’t take much for the chevron mustache to start looking untidy, so routine maintenance is going to be necessary.
Most men will get away with a shape-up twice a week but if your hair grows quickly you may need to trim it more often.
Good quality equipment is key to maintaining the perfect chevron mustache so invest in some good shaving tools and products.
When trimming your mustache concentrate on keeping the fullness in the center of your upper lip area. Then you can trim the sides at an angle on the outer edges toward the corners of your mouth.
Be careful that you are trimming symmetrically on both sides, so you don’t end up with a lopsided mustache.
Apart from regular trimming the chevron mustache is quite low maintenance.
Variations Of A Chevron Mustache

The chevron mustache is a classic shape with a definite 80s feel. If you want to tweak the shape and make it feel a bit more modern you can choose a variation of the style instead.
While the full chevron can be an almost military look these styles are a bit more relaxed.
Thin Chevron Mustache
If the fullness of a chevron feels too much for you, or you are struggling to achieve a thick mustache the thin chevron mustache may be the right choice for you. You’ll still have the shape but with a slightly pared-down look.
Chevron Mustache With Stubble
For a more relaxed feel wear your chevron mustache with a bit of stubble. This will feel slightly less stiff and formal while still rocking the cool chevron style.
Chevron Mustache With Beard
Why not go the whole hog and have a chevron mustache with a beard? The beard can help to enhance the look of the mustache. A modern style would be a chevron mustache with a short beard such as a goatee.
How Long Does It Take To Grow A Chevron Mustache?
It is impossible to say how long it takes to grow a chevron mustache as every man is different. The rate of hair growth from one person to another varies considerably according to their age, health, diet, and genetics.
However an average mustache typically takes between three and six months to grow, so this is a good guide to how long it would take to grow a chevron mustache.
Although the defining feature of a chevron is the fullness in the center which a lot of men struggle with.
The middle of the mustache is where the philtrum is located. This is the groove that lies between the top lip and the nose.
Hair does not naturally grow in the area, and it can be a problem for many men who can experience a mustache gap there.
As the chevron is defined by its center fullness it may take a bit longer to achieve this if you already have issues with sparse hair in the middle of your mustache.
Good hygiene, maintenance, beard oil, and a healthy diet will all help with growing a thicker mustache.
Similar Mustache Styles
If the chevron mustache is not for you there are other similar styles that may appeal to you more.
Horseshoe Mustache
The horseshoe mustache is similar to the chevron, but the sides extend all the way down to your chin. Famous wearers of the horseshoe mustache include Hulk Hogan.
Dallas Mustache
The Dallas mustache has all the same components as a chevron but is an unkempt version. This makes it more casual and a bit rugged making it suitable for square faces.
Pyramid Mustache
A sophisticated take on a chevron is the pyramid which has a wide base and narrows as it reaches the nose, literally like the shape of a pyramid. It’s an easy style to achieve and looks good on many face shapes.
Military Mustache
The military mustache is very similar to the chevron but with the edges being more rounded.
This makes the top of the chevron look flatter as the outer edge is more pronounced. It’s a style that looks good on men with a defined jawline.
Final Thoughts
We hope that you have enjoyed our guide on how to trim a chevron mustache and that it has been helpful and informative for you.
- Look Weird After Shaving Off Your Mustache? Here’s the Solution - February 7, 2024
- What Is A Hungarian Mustache? - July 5, 2023
- What Is The Zappa? - July 5, 2023